Wisdom from James

In James 1 it says that if you lack wisdom you should ask of God who gives to all men liberally. It says we should ask in faith boldly and without hesitation. I love that he adds “nothing wavering” which means without doubt or hesitation. If we doubt that God will give it to us why even ask. The Lord wants us to come to Him for blessings.

In Matthew 6:24 we are reminded that we cannot serve two masters because our loyalties will be divided and eventually we will lean to one side or the other. In James 1:8 it says that we shouldn't be double minded, meaning that we should say what we mean, and do what we say. In 1 Kings 18:21 we are told to just follow the Lord and not worry about heeding conflicting opinions.

If we remember that temptations do not come from God we will do well. Knowing that these addictions do not come from the Lord can help us to steer clear of them. Following temptations lead to sin and the end of happiness.

We should listen to others and really understand before responding. Really thinking about what we are going to say before we say it will help keep our tempers under control. Our wrath is not from God. We should be meek and follow the commandments of the Lord. We should also act on those commandments and promptings to further the work of the Lord. We will be blessed for the righteous actions we take. Charity is the pure love of Christ.

Bishops are good examples of doers of the word. Our recent outpouring of missionaries is another good example. My friends Jody Palmer, Diane Jeppson and Heather Burton are great examples of doers of the word. Even though these women have large families they take time from their busy homeschooling lives to bless the lives of other mothers.

Reasons why James 1:5-6 has “had a greater impact … upon mankind that any other” scripture.

1.       It brought for the restoration of the gospel through Joseph Smith heeding it’s words.

2.       It teaches us the way to receive revelation for ourselves.

3.       It leads us to the straight and narrow path and to eternal life.

4.       It opened the heaven in modern times.